Often overlooked simple tools for data analytics
When you are working on a limited time frame and budget, and you have to deal with multiple sources of data requiring input and output, sometimes the simplest tools are the best solution, at least for a starting point. As an example, using Google Forms and Docs can be a great tool for collecting data from different sources.
Creating an automated workflow in Google Docs to collect logos, names, and merge them with existing documents for customer distribution involves several steps and tools. Here's a general outline of how you can set up this process:
Collecting Logos and Names:
Google Forms: Create a Google Form to collect logos and names from customers or your internal team. This form can be set up to ask for the company name and provide an option to upload a logo.
Google Drive: The uploaded logos can be automatically saved to a specific folder in Google Drive.
Merging Data with Google Documents:
Google Apps Script: Use Google Apps Script, a JavaScript-based language, to automate the process of merging the collected data with your existing Google Docs. You can write a script to:
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Sending Documents to Customers:
Google Apps Script (Continued): Extend the same script to automatically email the finalized document to customers. You can use the GmailApp service in Google Apps Script to send emails with attachments.
Automating the Workflow:
Triggers: Set up triggers in Google Apps Script to automate this process. For example, you can create a trigger that runs the script every time a new response is submitted to your Google Form.
Testing and Deployment:
Before deploying this automated workflow, test it thoroughly to ensure it works as expected. Check that the logos and names are correctly merged into documents and that the emails are sent to the right recipients.
Maintaining and Updating:
Regularly check and update the script and Google Form as needed, especially if there are changes in the document format or the information you need to collect.